San Régis Paris

This understated five-star – once frequented by Lauren Bacall and Gene Kelly – is a delightful hidden gem. Decorated in quintessentially French style, it is at once luxurious and intimate. Expect fine design, courtesy of Pierre-Yves Rochon, excellent personalised service and an outstanding location.

Location

The San Régis is situated on a quiet residential road amidst the busy hum of the prestigious Triangle d’Or, which takes in avenues Champs-Elysées, Montaigne and George V. The Grand Palais and the high-end boutiques of the Champs-Elysées and Montaigne are less than five minutes’ walk away, while the Arc de Triomphe, Invalides, Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Quais de Seine are also within walking distance – but the hotel is pleasantly removed from the tourist throng.

Style & character

The San Régis was originally a private mansion which first opened as a hotel in 1923. Until the 1980s, the hotel was always known by word-of-mouth, and was a favourite hideaway for Hollywood celebrities and the Paris fashion set.Interiors are by French designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, also behind Four Seasons Geroges V and the Shangri-La, Paris.

San Régis Paris via Haute Hotel Network

Understated contemporary pieces are blended with exquisite period furniture (Napoleon III, Louis XVI, Regence and Chippendale styles), with antique embellishments added from the owner Elie Georges’ own collection. The look throughout is luxurious, with a gleaming marble entrance and French designer fabrics on the furniture and walls.

Service & facilities

There is no spa or a gym in this historic property. Instead, the five stars come from the exceptional level of service. The atmosphere is discreet and low-key and the service feels personal, genuine and warm.

Services include a Clefs d’Or concierge who is happy to arrange tickets to shows at the surrounding theatres, as well as spa appointments and restaurant reservations. There is also an extensive room service menu, laundry and dry cleaning plus valet parking, bellboy and international newspapers. The hotel is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection.

Bar

Laundry

Restaurant

Room service

Wi-Fi

Rooms

The colours, fabrics and furniture combinations in each of the 42 rooms and suites are a little different. All ‘Classique’ (standard double) rooms have modern furnishings styled with a classic aesthetic, with floral patterned Hermès wallpaper, wood panelling and antique portraits. Decoration becomes more stylised and eccentric in higher room grades, including elaborate Versailles-style décor.

San Régis Paris via Booking.com

All rooms are equipped with a kettle, a safe and wall mounted television with a range of international channels. Computers, printers and fax machines can be provided on request, as well as DVD players and video games. Views are of either Rue Jean Goujon, with the Grand Palais visible to the West, or of an attractive interior courtyard. Eiffel Tower views are available in the suites at the top of the property.

Bathrooms are all in marble and feature rain showers or tubs in all Classique rooms. Robes, slippers and Hermès toiletry minis are provided.

Food & drink

Dining is a low-key but stylish affair, with meals served under the elegant glass roof of restaurant Les Confidences. With only 34 covers, the feel is intimate and chef Christophe Lericolais’ take on French cuisine doesn’t disappoint. Starters include a perfectly velvety and fresh gazpacho or smoked salmon from luxury caviar house Petrossian, with inventive combinations prevailing for the main courses – the roasted cod with ginger and sesame crumble is particularly good. Desserts and cheeses are also pleasingly indulgent.

A lunch menu is available, as well as afternoon tea and a wide selection of drinks. The restaurant is reserved for hotel guests on weekends.

The breakfast buffet spread is generous and high quality, with a range of cereals, fresh fruit, cheeses, cold meats and pastries, as well as juices, tea and coffee.